Quck answer
To open a broken combination lock, follow these steps:
1. Assess the damage: Check if the lock is physically broken or if the combination is simply not working.
2. Use a shim: If the lock is physically broken, try using a shim to open it. Insert the shim between the lock’s latch and the shackle, then turn the shim to release the latch.
3. Try default combinations: If the combination is not working, try using default combinations provided by the lock’s manufacturer. These combinations are often used as a backup in case the original combination is forgotten.
4. Contact a locksmith: If all else fails, it’s best to seek the help of a professional locksmith who can safely open the broken combination lock without causing any further damage.
In order for a lock to be effective, you need to have the power to open it. If you find yourself locked out of your belongings because of a broken combination lock, there are ways to regain access. Some methods are more destructive than others. Depending on the reason for the broken lock, it may be possible to salvage it during the unlocking process.
Utilize the Reset Key
Combination locks often come with a key that allows entry without using the code. This key works even if the lock is not broken, and it should be the first solution you attempt if your combination lock is not opening. While this is the simplest solution, it will not work if the issue with your combination lock is a jammed shackle.
Keep in mind that some reset keys are only used to reset the code from the previous combination, so you must input the former code first.
Clear the Shackle
If you use a combination lock to secure an outdoor area, such as a shed, it may be exposed to weather conditions and natural elements. An outdoor lock can experience rust, frost, or a physical obstruction in the shackle that prevents the lock from opening even with the correct combination. This results in a combination padlock that won’t open.
Freezing temperatures can cause the lock shackle and locking mechanism to contract, causing the lock to seize up. First, if your lock has one, try using a reset key that has been warmed between your hands.
To remove physical obstructions, try pouring alcohol hand sanitizer into the lock to flush out any ice or debris. If this does not work, lubricants can help loosen rusted lock parts and prevent corrosion in the future. If you have a Master Lock, the manufacturer recommends using only Master Lock lubricant on their locks. Using a different lubricant could void your warranty.
Contact the Manufacturer
If your combination lock is not opening even when you enter the correct combination, it could indicate a defective lock that may be covered under warranty. For example, if a Master Lock stops working due to a defect in the product or workmanship, Master Lock will replace it. However, the company will not cover any locksmith fees for cutting the defective lock.
Call a Locksmith
If you have tried all the appropriate methods and your combination lock still will not open, it is time to seek help from a professional locksmith. You may be tempted to try forcing your way through the lock with bolt cutters, but many common combination locks and padlocks are made from case-hardened steel to resist being forced open by bolt cutters and similar tools.
